What is the term for the weight of traffic exerted on a pipe?

The term that refers to the weight of traffic exerted on a pipe is "live load." This concept encompasses the variable loads that occur due to the activity above the pipe, such as vehicles traveling over it. Live loads can change over time, depending on how many vehicles are on the surface and their weight.

Understanding live load is critical in engineering and construction because it helps determine the necessary strength and durability of pipe systems. This consideration ensures that structures can safely support the dynamic forces at play, preventing failures or damages over time.

In contrast, terms like static load relate to constant, unchanging forces, while dynamic load involves moving forces that can generate dynamic responses in structures, and surface load may not specifically cover traffic-related weights. Therefore, live load accurately describes the traffic impact on a pipe.